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Pismo Beach is known for its clams, moderate weather and cliffs, all of which can be easily accessed from the city's beachfront hotels. Alhough Pismo's hilly, uneven landscape makes it difficult for hotels to reside right on the sand, the Pismo Lighthouse Suites, Western Shelter Cove Lodge and Kon Tiki Inn compensate for this by providing their guests with spectacular ocean views and beach access via stairways.

Pismo Lighthouse Suites

Pismo Lighthouse Suites is located on a grassy bluff above the ocean, with access to the beach via a staircase that is easily accessible for guests. Those with ocean-view rooms will find that they have an ample view not only of the waves and sunsets, but also of whales--with a pair of binoculars, they can be seen regularly off the Pismo coast from the hotel's balconies. Once the guests reach the beach, they'll have access to kayak, surf, scuba and snorkel rentals from local vendors. Suites are equipped with two televisions, HBO, a clock radio, ceiling fans, balconies and separate living rooms with tables and chairs. Complimentary Internet, as well as a mini refrigerator and microwave, are available in all rooms. There are two bathrooms to every room; one contains only a shower, while the other has a tub with a built-in shower. Lighthouse guests also can enjoy a fitness center, pool, spa, putting area, badminton court, chess and ping-pong. A daily breakfast buffet is provided free of charge for hotel guests. Pismo Lighthouse Suites 2411 Price St. Pismo Beach, CA 93449 (805) 773-2411 pismolighthousesuites.com

Western Shelter Cove Lodge

The Western Shelter Cove Lodge also overlooks the Pacific Ocean from above. The hotel is situated on a cliff but has exclusive access to a beach and cove just down the hill. The Pismo Pier is only a few miles away, as are the Pismo Beach dunes, where popular activities include ATVing, horseback riding and dune buggy riding. All rooms at this Best Western brand hotel underwent a renovation in July 2008. The result was 52 oceanfront rooms with new paint, carpeting, bedding, window treatments and exteriors. New appliances, including coffee makers, refrigerators and microwaves, also were installed in each room. High-speed Internet is complimentary throughout the property, and rooms with fireplaces can be requested for an extra fee. HBO, hair dryers, ironing boards and Bath & Body Works toiletries are provided to all guests. A complimentary continental breakfast is available every morning at the poolside dining area, which also overlooks the ocean. Western Shelter Cove Lodge 2651 Price Street Pismo Beach, CA 93449 (805) 773-3511 bwsheltercove.com

Kon Tiki Inn

Panoramic ocean views are a key amenity to the Kon Tiki Inn, which is designed in a crescent shape to give every room a pristine view of the pool area, palm trees and ocean. All rooms come with king-sized beds, sofas and balconies or patios. Those who don't want to venture down to the ocean can still stay cool by taking a dip in the hotel's pool or spa, which enjoy a close proximity and unobstructed views of the ocean. A complimentary breakfast is included, as is access to the Pismo Beach Athletic Club, tennis and racquetball courts; laundry facilities are available with a per-load fee. Steamers of Pismo, a steak and seafood restaurant, is adjacent to the Kon Tiki Inn. Kon Tiki Inn 1621 Price St. Pismo Beach, CA 93449 (805) 773-4833 kontikiinn.com

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About the Author

Nellie Day is a freelance writer based out of Hermosa Beach, Calif. Her work can regularly be seen on newsstands, where her specialties include weddings, real estate, food and wine, pets, electronics, architecture and design, business and travel. Day earned a master's degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Southern California.